This week on Isange mu Banyu, the popular Radio Rwanda programme dedicated to stories of RDRC beneficiaries, listeners are moved by the powerful testimony of NSHIMIYIMANA Donatien, a former Sergeant in the FDLR militia. His story is one of misled beginnings, painful awakenings, and ultimately, hope rediscovered in his homeland—Rwanda.

A Childhood Disrupted by Conflict

Donatien was just a baby in 1994 when his family fled Rwanda amidst the Genocide against the Tutsi. Seeking refuge in the Democratic Republic of Congo, they hoped for safety and stability. But what followed was a descent into manipulation.

“I was only a child,” Donatien recalls. “In 2000, when I was still very young, I was forcibly recruited by the FDLR in Gikoma, Masisi. They told us we were joining a cause—to liberate our country. We didn’t know any better.”

Promises Built on Lies

Donatien underwent intense military training and was indoctrinated with messages of division and false glory. Leaders of the FDLR promised the world: luxury cars, grand houses, high military ranks, and leadership in a ‘liberated Rwanda’.

“They made it sound like we’d return as heroes. They said education didn’t matter—we’d be given everything. But as time went on, we saw the truth. Nothing ever happened the way they said. The group was disintegrating.”

A System of Exploitation

As Donatien rose through the ranks, he witnessed a deep disparity between the leadership and ordinary fighters. Resources meant for the group were siphoned off by commanders. International donations and funds from the DRC government were misappropriated. Worse, the FDLR increasingly resorted to theft—raiding local communities and selling stolen cattle, while junior soldiers like Donatien saw none of the profits.

“We couldn’t even get permission to see our families. Everything was reserved for the top brass. They weren’t fighting for a cause—they were living for themselves.”

A Culture of Fear and Isolation

The psychological control was just as damaging. Communication with family in Rwanda was forbidden. Anyone caught attempting to reach out risked execution.

“Even speaking to your own parents or siblings was dangerous. They’d accuse you of being a ‘Tutsi spy’. They filled our heads with genocide ideology and cut us off from the truth.”

A New Beginning in Rwanda

Donatien’s turning point came when he chose to return home voluntarily. At Mutobo Demobilisation Centre, he received support to reintegrate, learn, and rebuild.

“At Mutobo, everything changed. We were taught about Rwandan values, cultural heritage, and national unity. I now have a chance to pursue vocational training and build a better life. Rwanda is nothing like what we were told—it is peaceful and full of opportunities.”

A Call to Those Still Trapped

Donatien now lives with purpose and determination. His message to those still in the jungles of the DRC, particularly the youth, is clear:

“To those still in the FDLR—you are being misled. The leaders are using you for their own gain. Come home. Rwanda is not the enemy. It’s your country, and it welcomes you. The dream they sold us was a lie—the FDLR was built on falsehoods.”

© 2025 The Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission (RDRC). Permission to use quotations from this article/testimony is granted, provided appropriate credit is given to www.demobrwanda.gov.rw as the source.